Archive: Arts & Entertainment

Endicott, NY - The movie version of Into the Woods won't be out for months, but no need to wait: a powerful new production opens at the Cider Mill Playhouse (CMP) on September 18 and runs through October 12, Thursdays through Saturdays at 7:30 pm.

With music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and book by James Lapine, this show pushes the envelope – and CMP director Kevin Crewel pushes the show itself, unafraid to explore the inner angst of the characters. Like the original Brothers Grimm stories, this production of Into the Woods proves that fairy tales tell deeper truths.

"The artistic team presents Into the Woods with an elegant simplicity that lets the absolute beauty of the music and story take center stage," says Executive Director and Artistic Director Gail Belokur.

The show centers around familiar characters with desperate wishes to live happily ever after: Jack and the Beanstalk, Cinderella and her Prince, the Baker and his Wife, Rapunzel locked in a tower by the Witch, and more. But the play goes deeper to explore what happens when you get what you wish for – which is not always what you wanted.

The cast consists of an impressive mix of national, regional and local talent, reflecting CMP's continued commitment to bring together local artists with strong professionals from around the country. Joining Erin Wilson (Broadway National Tour, Wicked) as The Witch and New York City professional Rachel O'Malley as The Baker's Wife are three talented Ithaca teens: Matthew Skrovan (Jack), Keara Byron (Little Red) and Elisheva Glaser (Milky White).

Another Ithaca teen, Illana Wallenstein, serves as Assistant Director; it's been a valuable experience, she says "being in the room with amazingly talented and professional people and seeing how they work."

Others in the cast include Ithaca College graduate Josh Sedelmeyer (Baker), Perry Davis Harper (Wolf/Cinderella's Prince), , Maureen Dancesia (Rapunzel), Emily Goodell (Cinderella), Andrew Simek (Rapunzel's Prince), and Suzanne Brigham (Cinderella's Mother/Granny).

Crewel, who also serves as choreographer and music director, has performed on Broadway and in the National Tours of Monty Python's Spamalot, Jersey Boys, and The Drowsy Chaperone. His vocal coaching clients in New York City include two-time Tony Award winner Katie Finneran and Tony nominee Robin De Jesus.

Tyler M. Perry (Scenery & Lighting) is known locally for his exceptional work at places like The Kitchen Theatre Company and the Hangar Theatre. The artistic team also includes Anna Eden (Costume), Valentine Monfeuga (Sound), and Kirsten Knox as Production Stage Manager.

The Into the Woods audience will be the first to enjoy CMP's newly renovated, roomier tables and can purchase subscriptions at a savings by adding onto the cost of their already purchased ticket. Into the Woods is sponsored by the Press & Sun Bulletin and WNBF News Radio 1290.

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